Impact in Africa
Expanding Torchit’s Mission to Africa
In Africa, where the World Health Organization estimates that over 60 million people live with disabilities, the availability of assistive devices is limited due to various factors, including high import costs, inadequate support for persons with disabilities, and limited accessibility infrastructure. Recognizing these challenges, Torchit saw an opportunity to bring Saarthi’s life-changing capabilities to the African continent, where many visually impaired individuals struggle daily to navigate crowded and often challenging environments.
Torchit’s expansion into Africa was not only a response to market demand but also a realization of the urgent social need to create accessible solutions. This expansion was driven by partnerships with local non-governmental organizations, governments, and advocacy groups that helped Torchit understand specific regional needs and establish distribution networks to bring assistive technology within reach of Africa’s underserved communities.
Quantifying Torchit’s Impact in Africa
Torchit’s journey in Africa began with pilot programs in countries like Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Ghana, each of which has a significant population of persons with disabilities. Through these programs, Torchit deployed over 10,000 Saarthi devices in less than two years. The impact of these deployments was measured in terms of improved quality of life, independence, and mobility among users.
For example, in Kenya, where an estimated 1 million people live with visual impairments, Torchit partnered with local disability rights organizations to distribute over 3,000 devices in urban and rural areas. Initial surveys conducted by Torchit and local partners revealed that 89% of users reported an enhanced sense of safety and independence, with 72% stating that Saarthi had positively impacted their ability to move independently in public spaces.
Key Metrics of Success
Torchit’s impact in Africa is supported by quantifiable data that underscores the transformative power of assistive technology:
- 10,000+ Saarthi devices distributed across Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Ghana.
- 5,000+ hours of training and support provided to ensure effective use of Saarthi, emphasizing device familiarity and safety.
- 90% of users report increased independence, enabling them to pursue educational and professional opportunities.
- 75% reduction in navigation-related accidents among Saarthi users, a metric that highlights the device’s practical effectiveness.
These numbers are a testament to Torchit’s success in creating a solution that addresses real-world challenges and improves quality of life for thousands of individuals.
Building Local Partnerships for Greater Impact
Torchit’s approach in Africa has been characterized by collaboration with local partners, which has proven instrumental in amplifying its reach and impact. Torchit has collaborated with 30+ local organizations, including disability advocacy groups, non-profits, and educational institutions, to promote awareness and facilitate the distribution of Saarthi devices. Key partnerships include:
- Kenya National Association for the Blind (KNAB) – Torchit’s collaboration with KNAB enabled the widespread distribution of Saarthi devices across Kenya, reaching both urban and rural areas. This partnership has resulted in over 5,000 individuals gaining access to Saarthi, many of whom had previously lacked access to assistive devices.
- Nigeria Association of the Blind (NAB) – Through NAB, Torchit has distributed 2,500 devices in Nigeria, a country with one of Africa’s largest populations of persons with disabilities. In a recent survey, 85% of NAB members who received Saarthi reported a significant improvement in daily mobility and independence.
These partnerships have allowed Torchit to leverage local expertise, ensuring that its solutions are culturally relevant, accessible, and impactful.
Awards and Recognition for Torchit’s Work in Africa
Torchit’s impactful work in Africa has garnered international recognition, highlighting the company’s role as a pioneer in accessible technology. Some notable accolades include:
- Ashoka Changemaker Award – For its commitment to empowering people with disabilities through innovative technology, Torchit received the prestigious Ashoka Changemaker Award. This award is a testament to Torchit’s commitment to creating a more inclusive world.
- Global Disability Innovation Award – Torchit was honored with this award for its outstanding contributions to disability innovation, particularly for expanding its impact to underserved communities in Africa.
- Recognition from the United Nations – Torchit’s work in Africa has been acknowledged by the UN as a model for inclusive innovation, with Hunny Bhagchandani invited to share insights at global forums focused on disability inclusion and social impact.
These awards underscore Torchit’s influence in shaping the global narrative on disability rights and technology-driven inclusion, reinforcing its role as a leader in assistive technology.
We are committed to creating impactful, accessible solutions
